Plans to create a 'new neighbourhood' which features around 750 homes in central Leeds have been unveiled.

Get Living wants to construct eight apartment blocks, which would range between eight and 23 storeys in height, on a vacant 2.26 hectare site, that is just off Whitehall Road and near the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

The blocks would be part of a huge £180 million development that includes large open spaces, pedestrian walkways, shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and around 80 parking spaces.

Get Living says it is committed to providing affordable housing, as around 150 homes (20 per cent) would be offered at a 'discounted market rent'.

The developer has not drawn up a planning application yet, but it has held discussions with Leeds City Council planning experts, who are impressed with the preliminary proposals.

It is looking to submit a planning application in July and begin construction in 2019.

The new homes

A report prepared for the council's City Plans Panel states: "This scheme is a significant regeneration opportunity on a brownfield site. It would bring with it a large number of new homes and opportunities for employment."

The panel will discuss the proposals at length when it meets on Thursday, March 29 and look at several issues, including the size and scale of the buildings and the impact the development will have on nearby roads.

An artists impression of the Get Living development in Leeds

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Rick de Blaby, executive deputy chairman, Get Living, said: “Leeds is clearly fulfilling its wider vision and ambition at many levels, the manifestations of which are most visible in the central business district.

"With the council’s support through planning and other statutory approvals, we are looking to create a development with a difference that will benefit the city for the long-term by catering to the wide range of people who want to live and work in the area.

“We know from our own research that there is a demand for high quality and professionally-managed rental homes in safe, well-maintained neighbourhoods."

“This area to the south of the River Aire and the canal could be totally transformed with the introduction of modern, mid-market accommodation that offers comfortable, safe homes in an attractive waterfront location.”

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